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The day you collect the keys to your new home is one of the most satisfying moments in the buying journey. After months or years of waiting, paperwork and payments, you finally get to step inside. But this is also a moment that calls for focus. What you check, and record, during handover can save you time, money and frustration later.
This checklist is designed to help new homeowners prepare. It covers paperwork, inspections, defects, utilities and settling in. Buyers of new projects, whether a development like Lentor Signature or Lucerne Grand, will find the principles useful, though specific procedures depend on your developer’s instructions and contract.
Before Handover: Get Your Paperwork in Order
Handover usually follows notification from the developer that the unit is ready. Before you collect the keys, make sure your final payments and documents are settled.
Gather the following:
- Your sale and purchase agreement
- Identification documents
- Payment receipts and statements
- Notices or letters from the developer
- Your lawyer’s contact details
Confirm with your lawyer and the developer what you need to bring on the day and what you must sign. If anything is unclear, ask beforehand rather than in the middle of the appointment.
Understand Your Contract Terms
Review your agreement for clauses related to completion, defects and rectification. Most contracts include a defects liability period during which the developer must repair certain defects. The exact duration and conditions are set out in your documents.
Read these sections carefully. Knowing your rights makes it easier to communicate clearly and avoid disputes.
Plan the Day Properly
Handover appointments can take a while, so allocate enough time. Choose a slot with good natural light if you have a choice, since daylight makes defects easier to spot. Avoid scheduling other commitments immediately afterwards.
Consider bringing someone with you. A second pair of eyes helps, particularly if you are inspecting a large unit. Some owners hire a professional inspector, which can be worthwhile if you want a detailed assessment.
Bring a Basic Inspection Kit
A few simple tools make inspection more effective. Consider bringing:
- A torchlight for dark corners and cabinets
- A measuring tape
- Masking tape or sticky notes to mark defects
- A phone charger or socket tester to test power points
- A marble or small ball to check floor slopes
- A notepad and your phone for photos
Small items like these help you record problems accurately and calmly.
Inspect the Unit Systematically
Work room by room, instead of wandering randomly. Start at the entrance and move in a logical order, so you do not miss areas.
Doors and windows
Open and close every door and window. Check that they move smoothly, lock properly and have no gaps or scratches. Look at hinges, handles and seals.
Walls, ceilings and floors
Look for cracks, uneven paint, stains and bumps. Tap floor tiles gently to listen for hollow sounds, which may suggest poor adhesion. Check ceilings for marks or signs of leakage.
Bathrooms and kitchen
Run taps, flush toilets and check drainage. Look for leaks under sinks and test water pressure. Check the tiling, grout and waterproofing visible to you. In the kitchen, examine countertops, cabinets and fittings.
Electrical points and fittings
Test switches, sockets and lights. Make sure fittings match the specification stated in your contract. If something differs, note it clearly.
Record Everything
Photograph each defect and mark it with tape. Write down the location and a brief description. Most developers provide a defect form. Complete it carefully and keep a copy.
Clear documentation prevents misunderstandings. When you follow up later, you can show exactly what you reported and when.
Do Not Rush to Accept
You may feel pressure to wrap up quickly, especially if the process is busy. Resist it. Make sure all major issues are noted before you sign any acceptance documents.
If you find many problems, ask about the process for rectification and re-inspection. A calm, polite approach generally produces better cooperation than confrontation.
Collect Keys and Important Items
When you collect keys, verify the number and type, including access cards for the main gate, lifts and facilities. Ask about warranties, manuals and appliance documents. Keep these in a folder for future reference.
If the unit includes appliances or fixtures with warranties, note the dates and procedures for claims.
Set Up Utilities and Services
Arrange for electricity, water and gas accounts to be opened in your name. Choose an internet provider early, since installation can take time. Update your address with banks, insurers, employers and government agencies.
Having essentials ready before you move in avoids a stressful first week.
Plan Renovation Carefully
If you plan to renovate, check your project’s rules on renovation hours, approvals and contractor access. Many estates have guidelines to reduce disturbance to neighbours.
Get several quotes and ask contractors about timelines. Do not begin work until you have confirmed what is permitted. When exploring options in projects like Lentor Signature, your management office or developer can clarify renovation procedures.
Insurance and Safety
Consider home insurance once you take possession, and check what your policy covers. Install adequate locks, and review fire safety information provided by the building.
It is also worth noting emergency contacts, such as management office numbers, in a place everyone in the household can find.
Meet Your Neighbours and Management
A friendly hello goes a long way. Introduce yourself to nearby neighbours, especially if you plan renovations. Visit the management office to learn about facility booking, parking procedures and community rules.
Good relationships make condo living smoother and more pleasant.
Follow Up on Defects
After handover, track the progress of rectification. Keep records of emails, messages and dates. If a defect remains unresolved, escalate politely through the official channels listed in your documents.
Remember that the defects liability period has a time limit, so act promptly. Do not leave issues to accumulate until the end.
Final Thoughts
A careful handover sets the tone for your life in your new home. Prepare your documents, inspect thoroughly, record every issue and stay patient but firm. Whether your new home is at Lucerne Grand or elsewhere, the same principles apply: be organised, be observant and take the time you need. A little diligence now means many years of peaceful living later.